Teenage Frenzy for Physical Perfection or a Self-Esteem Concern?

Teenagers have many of the same concerns about their appearance that adults have. But is the concern merely part of a teenage frenzy for physical perfection or is it motivated by a serious self-image problem?

We all were teenagers once. Most of us probably remember some of the thoughts and feelings we had as our bodies grew and our features changed from childlike to adult. Likewise, some of us had other features that "stood out," such as prominent ears, large breasts, a big nose, a protruding chin, etc. During adolescence, these concerns may be especially keen because of peer pressure and taunting.

Parents sometimes worry that young people are overly preoccupied with their looks. As an adult, we are well aware that many of these fears and concerns will fade with time. Often a teenager's preoccupation with body image may be a desire to look more like a famous teen model or to look more mature. In other cases, body image concerns may center on irregular features or injury-caused problems.

As is true for people of all ages, plastic surgery - whether cosmetic or reconstructive - encourages and promotes a strong, positive self-image. Even a small change on the outside can create an extraordinary change on the inside, allowing self-confidence to flourish. Certain cosmetic surgery procedures may be of significant psychological benefit for some teenagers, provided that he or she is well adjusted both socially and emotionally.

Most of the procedures performed for teenagers are considered cosmetic - such as minimizing blemishes or changing certain features such as ears and nose. Others, such as breast reduction, scar removal or correction of a birth defect are more reconstructive in nature.

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